Thomas Ronald “Ronnie” Harrill, 77, of Forest City, died on Sunday, January 26, 2025 at Hospice of the Carolina Foothills. Ronnie was born in Rutherford County and was the son of the late Joe Thomas and Eunice Martin Harrill.  Ronnie was a United States Army veteran, serving during the Vietnam War.  He demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness throughout his service and was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds he sustained in combat.  After his military service Ronnie built a successful career as a construction contractor known for his exceptional craftmanship and attention to detail.  In his spare time, Ronnie enjoyed time on the golf course playing the game he loved and the camaraderie he shared with his golfing buddies.   Ronnie loved his family, had a deep bond with his children and was a devoted grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Matthew Grayson Harrill who died in 2021.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Gail Callahan Harrill of the home, a daughter Tracey Latham and husband Robert of Wake Forest, a daughter-in-law Brooke Harrill of Forest City, a brother Randy Harrill and wife Sandy of Rutherfordton, sisters, Rita Bailey of Forest City, and Lynn Cole and husband Steve of Forest City.  There are also five grandchildren, Ronald Garrett Latham and wife Lindsay, Grayson Wade Latham and fiancé Courtlyn Leonard, Gage Mason Latham, Aiden Brice Harrill, and Adilyn Paige Harrill.

A memorial service will be held at 3 o’clock Wednesday, January 29, 2025 in The Padgett and King Chapel with the Reverend Ricky Poteat officiating.  Military Honors will be accorded on the lawn of the chapel following the service by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.  Interment will be private. The family will receive friends after Military Honors outside of the mortuary.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com